After attending her son’s graduation from Army basic training, Karla Smiley noticed a disturbing sight. She observed that many of her son’s colleagues had no family in attendance to celebrate the momentous occasion.

What was even more disturbing for Smiley, who works for Pompano Pediatrics, was when military personnel informed her that many of these soldiers have no family at all and when mail comes in, they are often left with nothing.

“I can’t imagine my son [Private James Reed] not getting mail at mail call,” she said. “I just wanted to try to make a difference for them.”

Wanting to help these soldiers, Smiley, a Fort Lauderdale resident, started Florida Moms for Soldiers with her friends and family.

The nonprofit organization seeks everyday donations, such as socks, deodorant, sunscreen, chap stick, foot powder and baby wipes. Smiley then ships the items to the soldiers, who often go unnoticed at mail call.

“These kids really need supplies,” she said.

For more information about Florida Moms for Soldiers, call Smiley at 954-232-2432 or e-mail Floridamomsforsoldiers@gmail.com.